Living with a parent in prison: Learning from young people
By Catherine Flynn and Kathryn Gor
This report presents the findings of consultations held with affected children aged between 11 and 15 years old who have a parent in prison. It highlights the lack of research and policy attention given to this disadvantaged group and seeks to contribute to a stronger evidence base for future policy decisions by sharing their experiences.
An estimated 40,000 children in Australia have a parent in prison on any given day. Despite this, only three studies have heard directly from children of prisoners in the past decade and Australia currently has no guidelines around supporting children during the time of parental arrest.
Findings
Children largely rely on informal family supports, but there are frequently limitations on support available.
Teachers have the potential to be strong supporters of children who experience parental imprisonment, but need improved knowledge and skills.
Adults in the justice system are largely absent from children’s view.
The normal activities and experiences of childhood remain important to children when they have a parent in prison.
Children desire respect for their privacy.
Children want their own needs and rights to be recognised and responded to.
Melbourne: Monash University 2024. 53p.